Prophesy, Reconcile and Heal

Christian Conference of Asia

10 20 A

Prophesy, reconcile and heal

Volume 45 Number 1 March 2010 Editorial $

uring the tragic civil war in Lebanon, a young Christian training for the ministry Dwas walking from one village to the next They certainly seem to be part of the life of when he was ambushed by an armed Druze churches as well. So the question we must militia. The Druze ordered his captive down face is not whether we will disagree from time the mountain trail to a spot where he was to time, but how we can do so with reconciling to be executed. But the Christian, who had aims. This is a particular challenge for the also received military training, surprised his ecumenical movement, which has as major captor and was able to disarm him. Now, the goals the attainment of Christian unity and the tables were turned, and it was the Druze who protection and promotion of human dignity. was ordered down the trail. As they walked, One of the most important ways of promoting what was happening. reconciliation and healing is to build a strong sense of global solidarity. We need to have Recalling the words of Jesus, "Love your a strong sense of global solidarity between enemies; do good to those who hate you." His rich and poor countries, as well as within anger softened and he found he could go no individual countries. Globalization eliminates further. Throwing the gun into the bushes, he certain barriers, but is still able to build new told the Druze he was free to go. He turned ones. It brings peoples together, but spatial round and began climbing up the hill. Minutes and temporal proximity does not of itself later, he heard footsteps running behind him. create the conditions for true communion and "Is this the end?" he wondered, thinking his authentic peace. Effective means to redress enemy had retrieved the gun and was about the marginalization of the world's poor through globalization will only be found if people on, never glancing back. Suddenly his captor everywhere feel personally outraged by the grabbed his arm and embraced him and in injustices in the world and by the concomitant tears poured out thanks for sparing his life. violations of human rights.

Mercy is often garbed in the clothes of In these situations, the churches, as forgiveness. mandated by divine faith, have a special role and responsibility in promoting peace, Global communities continue to live in a reconciliation and healing the world. As churches we are called to be prophetic are crying for genuine peace and a just and witnesses and builders of peace, for “Blessed sustainable society in every global corner. are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9). We are also wars, violence and threats to peace and %R human security in the context of natural justice (Micah 6:8). according to the UN, will further aggravate Churches are called to speak and join their !R voices together to effect social transformation in a way that reconciles and heals our The lack of peace is evident in the negative &%R impact of economic globalization that peace has a special role in pursuing human continues to widen the gap between the rich dignity, protecting basic human rights and and the poor in many countries and between bringing fullness of life to the people who are the developed and developing nations. There exploited and rejected. The Church, which is is also political and structural violence carried the sign of communion with God and of the out by dictatorial or negligent governments, unity of the entire human race will continue $ to offer her contributions so that justice may ethnic or religious differences. Corruption in places of authority and the use of military solidarity. might to curtail dissent only creates more unrest and violence. *

2 CCA News March 2010 In this issue

Editorial 2 Volume 45 Number 1 March 2010 The 13th CCA General Assembly 4

+ Christian Conference of Asia

+-!/7<= Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 Thailand &>@FFK<PQ@FFK<PQZ

]: *

Editorial Committee: In focus Moumita Biswas $[ /Y Liza Lamis Worship and Bible Studies 15 Charlie Ocampo ^*__ Gender justice in the grassroots 16 A world free of nuclear weapons 18 Saying no to militarism 20 Church leaders support peace talks 22

` {R|$ PQ Accompanying the migrant workers 26

Disclaimer:

Opinions expressed in the articles Newsbriefs 28 of this publication do not necessarily Book review 30

CCA News March 2010 3 In focus The 13th CCA General Assembly a theological rationale

he CCA General Assembly held them, to motivate the member churches and $ $ councils to grasp the overall vision which Tapex point of the life of the CCA. The comes out of the Assembly to be in mission, General Assembly is the supreme body of and to equip the churches to exercise a the CCA and it attempts to bring together prophetic, reconciling and a healing ministry the representation of the Asian ecumenical within their own constituencies and beyond. family. Therefore, when it gathers once in $ In addition to the worship, there will be four thrust of the ecumenical movement for years $- to come. The basic purposes of the Assembly by four persons from the different regions of are mentioned in the CCA Constitution, which CCA in order to give the participatory and says: the regional balance which is also enshrined in the CCA Constitution. We have requested 1. The main functions of the Assembly are: the four facilitators of the Bible studies to give a. to celebrate the unity of the Church in a biblical exposition to the Assembly theme. Asia in worship, study and action They are assigned to conduct the studies on >OPO$P b. to express the common vision of the “Reconcile” and “Heal”. We hope that the churches for the direction and mission of worship services and the Bible studies will the CCA be conducted in a manner that inspires and c. to review the mission and receive the motivates people to go through a process of work of the CCA carried out through its programs, and to set general directions change what needs to be changed and let go for the future programs of the CCA what has to be discarded. We hope that the d. to speak on public issues when Word of God will challenge the participants to necessary be faithful to the Word of God and go through a conversion experience. P&$ and the Honorary Treasurer. The Assembly In addition to formal worship and Bible shall also elect the General Committee and studies, we have decided to set apart a room for prayer which will be kept open all the time during the Assembly for private prayer and The question is how does the Assembly meditation. In addition, we will also assign two carry out what is required by the Constitution persons (woman and man) to act as Chaplain/ and how do we theologically justify the Counselor. constitutional requirement? This paper is a response to these two questions and provides The D. T. Niles Lectures a guideline to those who are interested in Two D. T. Niles Lectures will hopefully be a such guidelines. point where churches will be challenged to wrestle with the issues related to the Assembly &+ &$| Assembly |& During the Assembly the items (a) and (b) in %R $ section 1 will be addressed in part through its implications for Christian witness and truth the four Bible studies which will be conducted telling amidst forces of death and life denying during morning worship. We are making forces. The speaker is also expected to give a preparations for the worship to be indigenous biblical exposition on the prophetic movement as well as to focus and draw insights from during biblical times and state the mind of God $ O $ in raising prophets and their challenge to the Reconcile and Heal”. The attempt is to inspire institutionalized religion which had become and motivate the participants and through % =

4 CCA News March 2010 Using this biblical model the speaker is Hopefully, this lecture may also challenge and also expected to challenge and expose the expose churches where they have become hypocrisy of the churches in Asia and call the obstacles or are insensitive to ministries of churches to repentance and accountability, reconciliation and healing, purely because of and to walk with God by identifying with their captivity to cultic and institutional forms %R$ of ministry and their refusal to go beyond and QR& embrace the pain of people which is also Q R $ %R _ to challenge and call the ecclesia to become It is expected that the two speakers will the authentic ecclesia of the oikoumene. This provide a biblical, theological and a pastoral is the costly nature of discipleship and the dimension to the churches to be the Church challenge to the Church is to live according in Asia, and to provide the impetus to the to its call and to be and become a credible churches to imitate the life and ministry of witness to the Gospel amidst the brokenness Jesus the Christ who called his followers to of the world. be his witnesses.

Would you commit ‘to make caring for creation a mission priority R? Cyclone Nargis victims in a _R meeting in Myanmar. The intention of the second D. T. Niles Lecture Sermon at the Opening Worship to be delivered by Dr. Ruth Manorama of India { $ is to focus on the reconciling and healing Reverend Roger Herft delivers his sermon %R$! at the opening session he, too, will set the _& theological and biblical tone with a vision of this lecture is relevant for all of us who live for the entire Assembly and empower the in Asia. The speaker is expected to identify delegates to become prophets, reconcilers and healers. The Archbishop is expected to $ show the importance and the urgency for the speaker is also expected to show the need $ % %R for reconciliation which involves justice and messengers to exercise the prophetic ministry mercy. Certainly, true reconciliation requires by speaking the truth in love, exposing and genuine repentance. The challenge for unmasking the principalities and powers churches and religious communities is to which try to play the role of God and deceive $ $ people. Furthermore, we also expect him involved in such ministries for the healing bring in examples from Asia to show how our of individuals, communities and nations. societies are broken and bleeding and need

CCA News March 2010 5 In focus

reconciliation based on the principles of justice stretch their theological imagination to renew and healing undergirded by repentance. their vision and articulate a fresh theological vision for mission and faith formation within We are also privileged to have the presence of the context of Asia. The insights from these Rev. Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit, the newly elected Forums will be brought to the plenary for General Secretary of the WCC. We have further dialogue, discussion and formulation. The challenges and insights from these O$` plenaries will serve as data or raw material for M ] P & ! $ invitation to him to immerse in the turbulent until the Assembly in 2015. waters of Asia and to spell out from a global perspective the implications of the theme and The Hypothetical exercise is another its challenges to the ecumenical movement. $ R We hope his talk will challenge the parochialism theological imagination and come to terms of Asian Christians and in turn Asians will have with God who is calling the Church to venture an opportunity to challenge the mindset of the into new territories. It may also provide an WCC. opportunity for the Church to feel that it needs a new language, a new vision and daring spirit &[Q$R %R the Drama amidst millions of suffering and struggling Hopefully these discussions will provide those people. who participate at the Assembly to challenge and to be challenged, to listen and to speak, to & Z learn and to unlearn and to vision new dreams to 8 experienced persons who are experts in and to let go captivity to enslaving traditions. hypothetical but realistic issues and articulate During the Forums the participants will be clearly without a written script. The role of introduced to new subjects, issues or areas the Moderator is to engage them by posing of major challenges with the help of resource some series of realistic mission/faith related persons to understand its implications/ questions for them to think and articulate challenges to the people in Asia. These answers or give insights so that the churches discussions and dialogues will provide in Asia can come to understand and feel opportunities to wrestle with new demands/ the urgency to revision its understanding of challenges that Asia poses, and in turn to inject mission in Asia. Hopefully it will challenge us new ideas to the delegates so that they can to go through a process of conversion.

Would you ‘commit to ‘ministries of reconciliation undergirded by justice and healing with repentanceR A local worship service in Timor Leste. >| Faurillo)

6 CCA News March 2010 We are also making arrangements for a Would you ‘commit Drama Group to perform during an evening to the ecumenical session. Communication is not merely movement in Asia and pledge of through word but also through music, song, support for the poetry, dance and silence. We hope that this work of ecumenism theatre group will provide through a drama the carried out by challenges that the Asian context poses to the CCAR churches and thereby motivate the churches Hyang, CCA General $ Committee member understanding of mission and priorities for *^% mission and witness. %] Consultation on Another crucial point during the Assembly is ${ Hence, past activities do not belong to the and Ecology in Asia the space provided for Regional Workshops. During this time representatives from regions past alone but they also provide directions to the future which is always challenging and November 2009. will discuss together issues they face and to > articulate those issues through the thematic full of surprises. Therefore, receiving reports thrusts of the Assembly. This will provide the from the past should be considered as part contextual basis for the programs CCA plans of the process of accountability, stewardship !$ and ownership. It is a time for honest dialogue The events described above are designed to with the member churches and grasp “the articulate an ecumenical vision for mission breadth and the strength, the height and the !$ P]<> /7 %R $ O $ complex continent like Asia. Finally, it should Reconcile and Heal”. be looked upon as a time to repent and praise God. To Review and Receive the Work of Elections and Future Responsibilities This portion of the schedule, item (c) in the This is also a crucial area of the Assembly CCA Constitution, will be handled at the where the Assembly elects leaders to carry Assembly when the reports of the outgoing forward the mission mandate of the Assembly % ^$ !$ Reports and the CCA Review are taken $ for discussion. During these sessions work they have performed in partnership the Assembly will be informed about the with member churches and councils and the activities/programs carried out in partnership Executive Staff. with member churches and councils. This particular aspect in the schedule should not Most of us are aware that a good deal of be regarded merely as a matter of reporting or politics and arm twisting occurs to get people relaying of facts. It should be treated as a time It is almost impossible to rule out such $ human activities. However, what should be kept in mind is to elect the right people with partner churches and struggling together _ R to discern the presence of God who is also the country or another to positions within the God of surprises! It is also an opportunity to ecumenical movement. The right selection discuss openly the strengths and weaknesses $ %R of the ecumenical movement in Asia, and and witness in places where God has placed what steps and commitments should be them. Sometimes this does not happen and made to make the ecumenical movement therefore the ecumenical movement suffers relevant and dynamic. It is also a time for %R_ churches to make renewed commitment to be in partnership with the ecumenical movement In this context each individual should ask and become accompaniers of it in partnership the question: am I the most suitable person with God. in my country or region to take a responsible position within the ecumenical movement?

CCA News March 2010 Z In focus

One should not be pushed into any position confession, repentance, forgiveness, healing, $R as these positions are set apart by God for Churches may also be able to use this short women and men of integrity and spirituality. It statement to enlighten their members on is unfortunate that some of us tend to trivialize %R explain to them what God expects from them in terms of prophetic, reconciling and healing ministries. Acts of Celebration and Solidarity The Assembly is a place where we tell our stories, celebrate our achievements and also confess our sins. It is also a place to meet old friends and to start new relationships. It is a place to bond with one another and pledge to each other to accompany them in joy, sorrow and through all the changing scenes of life. The Assembly is also a place to transcend barriers of race, class, caste, ideology and gender and language superiority and embrace one another as one in Christ. It is a place to witness to and thank God for %R of human sin and callousness. The Assembly is also a place to start a new beginning for %R entire creation in partnership with God and Would you commit the spirituality and the integrity of a leader humanity. called to serve the ecumenical movement. to ‘explore and experiment how The recent evaluation carried out by CCA $ to make the reveals some of these aspects expressed are not a part of the main Assembly and that ecclesial presence by members of constituent churches is the reason they are not included within the in Asia indigenous and councils. Therefore, the ecumenical main Assembly agenda. The answer is yes to its context movement in Asia needs the best from and no. On one hand, it is not a part of the and relevant %%R Assembly deliberations. On the other hand, to the people it work in Asia. If the ecumenical movement is $ R Children weak or has no proper vision or leadership The fact that there is a place to present a in Cambodia then all of us should take the responsibility short and a precise report from each of the > for it. As in the past we need women, youth $ and men of character, credibility, vision and $ spirituality to guide the ecumenical movement are a part of the Assembly. %R_$ in Asia. We need prophets, reconcilers and Additionally, more than one third of the healers who are immersed in a spirituality of $ attend the general assembly and some will ecumenical movement and in return to serve be delegates. A few delegates are selected the churches in Asia. At the end we are all before hand from the total number of delegates called to serve God who called prophets, and invited to participate in the proceedings of $ %R & $ own ministry. _ the main Assembly. In fact, the expectation is ^[ that the few delegates are expected to share This is a short statement which will emerge out of the Assembly deliberations to be taken the discussions and debates in the Assembly _ when and where necessary. enact. Hopefully it will contain elements of

8 CCA News March 2010 We are also aware that most of those who people together and provide them a forum to come as delegates to the General Assembly express their pains, struggles, victories and + defeats. It is a forum provided to unmask the course, they are important to the life of the principalities and powers and name the idols Church and to the ecumenical movement. which try to pass as off instruments of the However, we also need to acknowledge %& that at these Assemblies a large section of $ people who are outside the bureaucracy of and they should be taken as Forums where the institutional Church, who are known to be the voice of prophecy is proclaimed and the QR urgency for reconciliation with justice and and those who are immersed in the suffering healing with repentance is advocated. people are missing and their experiences and voices are often absent in Assembly debates. ` & $ CCA in the last number of years to bring such

Expected Outcomes # A renewed commitment by the churches and councils to the ecumenical movement in Asia and pledge of support for the work of ecumenism carried out by CCA # A renewed commitment by the churches to strive towards Christian unity, solidarity and to overcome human made barriers which deny the opportunity to take part at the same Eucharistic table # $$ $ # Support and solidarity from the churches to the work of human rights advocacy in Asia # Support from churches to provide sanctuary and solidarity for those who are being # $$ repentance, se # %R # A Commitment by churches to overcome the sin of patriarchy, violence against women and children # A full embrace of a spirituality of simplicity, self emptying and voluntary poverty # A commitment to make caring for creation a mission priority of the churches # A commitment by the churches to advocate for a community, country, region and a world free of arms and nuclear weapons # A recognition that the God revealed in the Bible is the God of the entire creation and to be mindful of that biblical principle when relating to people of diverse religious and ideological persuasions # A commitment by the churches to overcome unjust structures, where necessary in partnership with people of different regions and ideologies, which keep millions of people %R$$ # A commitment by the churches to empower communities, groups and individuals who are involved in struggles to overcome sins of racism, classism and casteism # A commitment by the churches to explore and experiment how to make the ecclesial presence in Asia indigenous to its context and relevant to the people it serves # $ inspiration for Christian witness and evangelism in Asia

CCA News March 2010 9 In focus

$[ [@ &`|^

enhance the involvement of theological institutions, pastors and priests and church workers to support people living with HIV+ # To urge the mutual accountability of church statements and commitments that have been made. Contents # Overview of Situation and Challenges of HIV and |^&*$ @ [ Based Organizations, # Skills Building Sessions on Building HIV Competent {$ _ @ *$ ^{=$ Churches and Theological Education in Asia, +=$% She Wah shares the grace of healing and forgiveness to Theology and AIDS, Healing of Memories her HIV+ sisters and brothers. # Harm Reduction Strategies # ]!|^* Description -&`^!$ & $ @ and HIV and AIDS &`|^ # ${[ together key affected populations, people living with HIV+, # Developing a statement to present to the 13th $ General Assembly of CCA theologians to engage each other in frank and constructive # Meeting with Mekong countries dialogue on vulnerability and risk factors in HIV and AIDS, stigma and discrimination, protection of human rights and human dignity, mutual accountability, access to whole range # *$ of care and support, building HIV Competent Churches and # [_|^ meaningful participation of people living with HIV and AIDS and key affected population in faith based organizations and # church activities. # in Asia, World Council of Churches, Lutheran Venue and dates: |$$*=$ World Federation, United Evangelical Mission, and /Y/QPY/Y Malaysian AIDS organizations) Expected outcomes Objectives # Statement to be Addressed to the 13th CCA General # To share insights on the challenges of HIV and AIDS Assembly for Asia in the second decade of this millennium # Asian contribution towards Building HIV Competent # To listen to the stories of the most affected and Churches/Faith Based Organizations # Asian Theology on AIDS, Follow up of Integration of to the Asian theology on AIDS HIV Curriculum in Theological Education # To share strategies and skills that work to eliminate # Sharing of Resources on HIV and AIDS stigma and discrimination and promotes healing and # - reconciliation Churches in the Mekong Region # &R theology of health, healing and wholeness and Contact details for more information: ,

10 CCA News March 2010 &R[

Description & R [ Contents R # { the perspectives and priorities of mission in the ecumenical and Asian realities movement. It can be a venue where the voices of those who continue to be marginalized and oppressed by power, # Displacement, migration and refugees position, class, ethnicity, ideology and prejudice. # Ecological justice, ecotourism and alternatives to globalization >|$$*=$ # Mission and solidarity with the poor ///QPY/Y # $ Objectives # Nuclear disarmament, peace and security # to be a venue for creative dialogue between churches and movements and to draw implications R _ # Members of CCA Justice, International Affairs, bruised and brutalized people and communities |^ to initiate a network among churches and # Assembly delegates movements where it does not exist and to renew # and strengthen existing networks # _ Expected Outcomes at national and regional levels to work together in solidarity to overcome forces that divide and networks in human rights and peace building, ecological R justice, and migrant workers to assist Assembly public # to bring out a Forum Statement identifying the issues committee; and to identify future directions and principalities and powers which are denying life to program foci for JID. people and challenging the churches to focus on Contact details for more information: [email protected]; who said, “I have come so that they may have life [email protected] and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

Hearing the voices from the margins. * woman sharing her story before the Article 9 Conference demonstrators. > Ocampo)

CCA News March 2010 11 In focus

Asia Ecumenical Course 2010

Description R The Asian Ecumenical Course (AEC) is the annual ministry, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, ecumenical formation program of the Christian Conference obstacles and their attempts at overcoming them ^/XZF # - or younger leaders of CCA member churches and national on the theme councils. Its four components are: (a) Asian realities, # Workshops on the use of arts (music, theater arts) (b) ecumenical vision, (c) community building, and (d) in prophetic, reconciling and healing ministry of leadership training. In this assembly year, AEC participants the church will have some time together prior to the Assembly for community building, leadership training, analysis of Asian # Sharing of faith journeys – part of community realities and inputs on the wider ecumenical vision. This building will be held at the Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM) in # Immersion in and analysis of Malaysian and Asian ^&* realities to attend the CCA General Assembly as observers and # __ animators of the daily worship. learning

Venue and dates: Seminari Theologi Malaysia %^* Twenty (20) participants nominated by CCA member Malaysia _ 7PPPY/Y and interests in singing and drama in public worship. Objective To equip younger generation of leaders with a wider Expected outcome ecumenical perspective that shall enable them to

leaders gain a wider ecumenical perspective through the AEC. The 2009 ]*_ India. participate in the prophetic witness and reconciling and commitment to ecumenism and who will then share this healing ministry of the church in Asia. vision to their communities.

Contents Contact details for more information: [email protected] # ] >

12 CCA News March 2010 &$[

Bring in the voices and gifts of the young! ] Assembly in January PY/Y*_ Description $R CCA is committed to nurturing the leadership potential membership of the youth for the ecumenical ministry in Asia, and # To help revive ecumenism within the host to providing opportunities and avenues within the country, Malaysia. ecumenical movement to enable the youth to actively participate in, and contribute their gifts and voices to the Contents &$$ # & a venue where they young can discuss issues confronting them. Additionally, the forum provides the opportunity for # Lectures and group discussions on the Assembly the youth delegates to prepare themselves for the CCA theme $ # $ $!$ # occasion for the assembly Stewards to gain ecumenical exposure and basic honing of skills to effectively assist in # Community building the smooth conduct of the CCA assembly. Venue and dates>%^* # | Malaysia # Assembly Stewards /Y/<PY/Y # Observers

Objectives Expected Outcomes # To facilitate discussions on current and emerging # ^$ issues confronting the youth in Asia, and bring the voice of the youth to the Assembly # on both protocols and issues during the Assembly # To provide ecumenical formation and training sessions for youth stewards, and orient them on the CCA Assembly theme # Stewards who have undergone basic ecumenical formation and training to assist in the Assembly # To prepare a youth statement for presentation to as stewards the assembly, # Focused direction of the ecumenical youth # to focus the direction of the ecumenical youth movement !$ # To renew and strengthen old bonds and build Contact details for more information: Adam@cca.org.hk

CCA News March 2010 13 In focus

&{R$[

We cannot afford not to be partners as women and men. Asian School for Gender Justice in September 2009.

Description Contents & {R [ ZY # Bible studies (Asian spirituality and theology, leaders around Asia and some church men leaders in theology of positive masculinity) solidarity with women to promote gender justice under the # O > { ` and Reconcilers.” A few women leaders from other faith ${@[ communities are also invited to enrich the discussion and # Creative Workshops and Dialogues (Healing Memories, Brokenness to Healing), Restore Broken irrespective of religious, class, ethnic and ideological barriers. ` &$ =$ The forum will also help in preparing women delegates to &{_& actively and meaningfully participate in the CCA Assembly # Exposure program deliberations. # Story telling sessions # ^ Venue and Dates:|$$*=$ /Y/<=PY/Y # Women voting delegates Objectives # `% # To raise the prophetic voices, peace building skills # ] of Asian women and their contributions to building prophetic communities of peace. Expected Outcomes # & R # $ R movement in its task to promote gender justice in involvement in decision making process of Church church and society. and ecumenical organizations in building prophetic # To draw up action plans and strategies to promote communities. R # Strengthened networking and solidarity among making processes of the church and society, and to Asian church women engaged in prophetic mission R as healers and reconcilers and prophetic communities # R # To explore theologies of positive masculinity and gender justice spirituality, and promote men and youth involvement # Some articulations on theologies of positive in promoting gender justice. masculinity and Asian Spirituality

Contact details for more information: [email protected]

14 CCA News March 2010 Worship and Bible Studies

orship and Bible Studies are a very vital part in the life and work of the Christian Conference of WAsia. They help to remind us of our need for God In order to make worship in this assembly celebratory, and our need to constantly discern the word of God for our participatory and meaningful, we have invited the lives in these times. delegations to bring some symbols and their own musical instruments. Aside from singing and learning songs and /< % $ hymns from Asia, we will also sing some of the old hymns Bible studies have been prepared on the theme for use and songs that churches are more familiar with – especially by the CCA member churches and councils. They have using versions of the lyrics that are more contextual, been published in a special GA edition of the CTC Bulletin inclusive, and theologically sound. There will also be time and on the CCA website (www.cca.org.hk) so churches and space for singing action songs and choruses – for we can prepare themselves for the assembly by studying and shall indeed praise our God with our whole being! their lives and ministries. Drama presentations (street theater) will also form part of the liturgy – these are to mirror to us some aspects of The liturgies and four Bible studies at the General our life, and thereby calling our attention to the need for $%O$ confession and renewal of commitment. Reconcile and Heal.” The opening worship speaker on the theme will be Archbishop Roger Herft (Australia). The The seating arrangement around the round tables in the $-$ assembly hall will provide us with a good opportunity to themes by the following Bible study enablers: “Called”, build communities as we worship and study the Word of $`&_$ God together and as we deliberate on the life and work of O$P ` | $ - * O`P !$ Metropolitan G Mor Coorilos (India); and “Heal”, Rev. | ` =$ & Hope S. Antone shaped the liturgies and symbols that the GA worship $ pots (broken and mended), water, coconuts. Bible Studies are available online Three Assembly songs have been composed for this 13th (www.cca.org.hk), and are published % $> O+ ^ _$ P $ ^$ ] =$ in the CTC Bulletin, Volume XXV, Swee Hong (Singapore); “God Calls Us All” by Luna Number 3 (Decmeber 2009) |$ |$ O { $P $

Deliberating on the life and work of CCA is a form of worship itself. The AEC 2010 will help animate worship services and Bible Study sessions. The AEC 2009 participants in *_

CCA News March 2010 15 In focus

Gender justice in the grassroots “Can a Cambodian Christian be a feminist?”

his is the question posed by Rev. Oum (LWF) based in Cambodia to facilitate ^$* the training together with some executive T * * & %& activities included sexual equality, gender Cambodia on February 24 to 26, 2010. and HIV and AIDS, gender and health, ^! ! of youth, women, church leaders and pastors light district and visit to an NGO working on M$* _ partnership CCA and the Mekong Ecumenical =] Men and women partnership ”Even though some participants do not &* know how to read and write, they actively a gender justice training for both women and participated. They were eager to understand _ ^$ {R more about gender justice,” shared Janejinda =]

Asian Feminism Rev. Oum Sovy highlighted the need for the Cambodian church leaders to be peace builders and agents of gender justice. He quoted Galatians 3:8 to justify the role of church leaders in promoting the understanding that both men and women are equal in spiritual blessings and rights to life and dignity. “Asian Christian Feminism should promote life in its fullness for women, men and children,” he further added.

Local Contribution Self reliance was evident in the local contributions, which is not always in terms of money and dollars. Cambodian church leaders offered their hard work and labour. The women and youth jointly facilitated some of the training activities, volunteered to prepare food and run some errands and gave their precious time. The Children Vision Center $ * =$ ^ *=^ a subsidized price.

A woman and man team resource persons came from the Lutheran World Federation

16 CCA News March 2010 ^$ * ^ |_ * ^][% ^$ ` ^$R trainers conducted by CCA in September challenge helped participants appreciate 2009 especially for church leaders from more the important partnership of men and the Mekong Region and East Timor. Aimed women in building inclusive communities. to provide grassroots leaders a venue for CCA always encourages member churches sharing, learning and enhancing capacities and councils to engage in gender justice to advance gender justice, the training helped participants to recover values that promote is crucial in building inclusive communities of and uphold fullness of life for all especially for peace. women, and to reinterpret scripture from an inclusive perspective. Ripple effect & Q R School of Ecumenical Formation of Gender =-

Gender justice is about being gender fair and inclusive. Training participants.

CCA News March 2010 /Z In focus

A world free of nuclear weapons turn swords into ploughshares, bullets into bells

wacheon is a little place with a big The impact of the US nuclear doctrines =|= in the use of nuclear weapons in claims Hby M. Virginia Swisher), which lies in to prevent wars and in its national missile ^* |& complex that militates against participatory * democracy, the strong links between War, and its population has good reason to patriarchy and nuclear power, the great know the meaning and value of peace. human suffering in the aftermath of nuclear bombs that fell in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Hwacheon County played host to a group of the negative impact on ecology and climate ecumenical peace advocates from Canada, changes, and the negative consequences [*$_ $ R and the USA, who met on December 4 to 6 social and political security all point to an to seek ways of strengthening the ecumenical urgent need to a renewed commitment to movement for urgent action on nuclear nuclear disarmament. disarmament reaching out to other faith communities. Ecumenical commitment to nuclear disarmament was sounded at the inaugural The Conference started with a hopeful note Assembly of the World Council of Churches in 1948, calling for the abolition of nuclear +R weapons as weapons of mass and $ indiscriminate destruction endangering ^$ R ^ ^ humanity and the whole creation. Churches statements by prominent persons. However, worldwide through the WCC, have maintained this call will be taken as just another round in a consistent stand on the elimination of the disarmament discourse unless concrete nuclear weapons within the framework of a steps towards disarmament are taken that will broader commitment to living “without resort lend credibility to these recent exhortations to arms” and to seeking peace with justice and statements. and with respect for the integrity or creation.

Major institutional and political obstacles The 1983 WCC Assembly in Vancouver, in a to nuclear disarmament include the lack of effective international disarmament machinery, the secrecy and obfuscation in on Nuclear Disarmament (1981) declared; nuclear affairs and the need for transparency and accountability, the lack of willingness “The nuclear issue is in its impact and and ability of the nuclear weapon states thrust to humanity a question of Christian for nuclear disarmament, and the steep discipline and faithfulness to the Gospel”. imbalances between perceived adversaries in conventional military strength. All these The concept of shared human security continue to frustrate nuclear disarmament. is a reference point for ecumenical policies and programs that address critical & * P/ _ ^ $ Asia, the peace talks in the Middle East continue to be threatened by the presence of consumption, and the nuclear threat. nuclear weapons in varying degrees.

18 CCA News March 2010 Conference participants at the -_ The Conference was organized jointly by the ^ _ = ` & % ^ * `[` = ^ _ $ * * |^*{ $ * * Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) and the The gathering in Hwacheon issued The World Council of Churches (WCC). Outgoing Hwacheon Call, addressed to the ecumenical WCC General Secretary, the Rev. Dr. Samuel community, its worldwide and regional *{ organizations, member churches and those Engagement in Nuclear Disarmament at willing to cooperate in the active pursuit of the Conference. Fifteen theologians and a world of peace – a world free of nuclear * weapons. consultation, which received very warm welcome and hospitality from the Mayor &O[{> of Hwacheon County. Charlie Ocampo of A World Free of Nuclear Weapons”, issued in *| *F|PYYX Jonathan Frerichs, WCC; Dr. Ernie Regehr, available at www.cca.org.hk Ahmad, Lahore University of Management Charlie Ocampo

CCA News March 2010 19 In focus

Saying no to militarism

Religious leaders $ 7Z and advocates using creative media; to expand at a public prayer representing Buddhist, Christian and the peace network in countries experiencing during the Article 9 EMuslim faith communities gathered at =$ Second Conference. the Christian Academy House, hosted by the ^ _ _ $`* * `+*|/<PYYX second conference for peace advocates of the Article 9 campaign in the Ecumenical supporting the Article 9 Movement in Japan. Advocacy Day in Washington DC (March Reports on developments in Japan and the 2010) and the International Ecumenical rest of East Asia, stories of communities * affected by the presence and actions by (2011). military forces were shared. The Conference delegates expressed their [ solidarity with the comfort women who were insights came to light: 1) Supporting Article 9 rendered victims of sexual slavery and racial discrimination during the course of World War what it means to be living their faith in an II, by holding a demonstration in front of the area of public concern; b) support for Article US Embassy in Seoul, with singing, solidarity 9 has created new bonds of solidarity among messages, and listening to stories of courage religions and peace advocates; 3) Japan from a number of comfort women. needs to move beyond its “One National $P The Mission Statement of the Article 9 peace with its neighbors; 4) Article 9 invites International Working Group was also people of the region to promote a fuller approved at the Conference, which can be understanding of peace based on the ”right accessed at www.cca.org.hk. to a peaceful existence”; and 5) Countries that have waged war on their neighbors have &`*+^ to make right with their neighbors in order to of the Conference.The Rev. Shin Seung build lasting peace. = `+* ` [_ _ Among the resolutions passed by the `+* Conference to advance the spirit of Article ^[ X _ in Rome; and Charlie Ocampo from CCA generational peace education to include composed the Conference Secretariat. ! and the training of peace education facilitators Charlie Ocampo

20 CCA News March 2010 Joint FABC and CCA Staff Meeting

he path to full visible unity of the Church was in 2001. in Asia is arduous and never easy. TAfter some time of hiatus, the once Nine years thereafter, the next Joint FABC robust ecumenical and collaborative work and CCA Staff Meeting took place on [ -R February 20, 2010, at the St. Louis Hospital Conferences (FABC) and CCA comes to life in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting aimed again. to revive and sustain a more committed collaboration between CCA and FABC. In search for a fuller visible unity of the While we continue praying for a visible unity Church in Asia, CCA and FABC called for of the Church in Asia to be realized, we also the formation of the AEC in 1993. In the take concrete steps to help bring it about. following years, CCA and FABC were able to organize two seminars on the Asian & Movement for Christian Unity (AMCU). The the intent of the Asian Ecumenical Committee [-] (AEC), which was jointly created by both CCA took place in September 1999. FABC was and FABC to further promote ecumenism in well represented in the Asian Congress Asia. Joint programs such as the AMCU and of Theologians (CATS I and II), and have CATS will be sustained, joint staff meetings participated in the Asian Ecumenical Course regularized, and communication lines conducted by CCA. The AEC had regular meetings until the year 2006 to follow through the concrete The next joint staff meeting is projected to measures it has put forward to increase take place in January 2011 in Bangkok, collaboration work between CCA and FABC. Thailand. The last joint CCA and FABC staff meeting Liza Lamis

FABC and CCA leaders and staff

CCA News March 2010 21 In focus

Church leaders support peace talks

constitutional changes are still very much the of cessation of hostilities and disposition of forces are agreed upon.

The Davao Assembly is a step further in a series of regional consultations and workshops [ve representatives from the Norwegian churches which inlcuded Bishop Helga Byfuglien, representing the Christian Council of Norway attended the Assembly, representing the ]] Members of the rchbishop Antonio J. Ledesma and which continues to provide support for the ]% = ^ ` $ `| peace talks. Mr. Carlos Ocampo from Christian Aopened the First Assembly of the Conference of Asia (CCA) attended the Assembly ] as an observer representing Churches in Asia. ] ` & ] stay their course in a commitment to support the Association of Major Religious Superiors the resumption of peace talks between the =`^ %` - %` | [ - ] - [ (NDF). “We will never succumb to weak (EBF), the National Council of Churches in resignation, and with victory before us, we will rise and conquer”. ]]

[$QK$ + F [$ ] $ $ _ ] arrested while attending a training seminar in time at the Brokenshire Convention Center Morong, Rizal. There were reports of torture |$///<[$PY/Y& and the families were denied full visitation $ rights. The detainees have since been shown and lasting peace, which include respect in court after a writ of habeas corpus hearing for human dignity and equality, respect for at the Court of First Instance in Manila. human life, the promotion of human life and the common good, that public authorities & _ $ %R condemnation, support and solidarity from promotion of peace and solidarity. churches and human rights advocates from the WCC, CCA, the World Student Christian & %` Federation and other international organizations. NDF before the negotiating table have been a long and circuitous process. Among past Military operations including arrest without a agreements signed by both parties include warrant and subjecting detainees to torture the Joint Agreement on Safety, Security and under interrogation bring to the fore the Immunity Guarantees (JASSIG) under the $ $ ] Aquino Government; and the Comprehensive active role and advocacy for peaceful solution Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CAHRIHL) signed under ] % % =$ – “Opus solidaritatis pacisque”. social and economic rights and political and Charlie Ocampo

22 CCA News March 2010 Interfaith groups gather for peace

^ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. At the ceremony, Foreign Minister Itook place in Jakarta, Indonesia on January Natalegawa also launched a book,“Insight PKPZPY/Y`R >&P a collection of writings about Indonesia by facilitated the holding of the Conference. More American prominent leaders, such as Former than 100 participants from different faiths, ^^^$$* __ $ members of the US Congress. and scholars from Indonesia, USA, Japan, & =$ ` _ and Sri Lanka attended. the opportunity to raise mutual understanding and level of sensitivity of people of different The Conference was one of the steps faiths living side by side. undertaken by the US government to promote All religions were called to join in efforts at -_ +R $_ in Cairo, Egypt in June 2009. Indonesia, the the moderates, in confronting negative biggest Muslim country, was chosen as the stereotypes, and in promoting harmony among location for this new initiative. civilizations. Alleviating poverty protecting the environment, promoting education on +> religious diversity and the common good, and advancing good governance are areas where “I have come here to seek a new faith communities need to enhance their beginning between the United States and collaboration. Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect; |*%^$ and based upon the truth that America represented the Christian Conference of Asia in and Islam are not exclusive, and need not the Conference, which served to reinforce the be in competition. Instead, they overlap, role of Christians and other faith communities in promoting world peace and reconciliation of justice and progress; tolerance and the in communities and organizations. CCA is dignity of all human beings.” committed to accompany its member churches and Councils in their respective contexts The Minister for Foreign Affairs, H. E. Dr. R. = =$ = $ = *

A panel discussion at the Conference

CCA News March 2010 23 `

R {R|$

*_- [^^ $ $ * _ from November 2004 to protest against the is an indigenous woman, daughter of a violation of human rights and the immense Tfarmer, of the Chittagong hill tribe in power and impunity by the Indian army in Bangladesh. She was abducted on 12 June arbitrarily arresting, detaining and killing 1996 from her home and is still missing and civilians. Their victims are mostly young _* people and women in Manipur and other parts vehemently criticizing Bangladeshi military of India. repression and harassments of indigenous people, especially the women. She was In 2004, Thanjam Monorama a young engaged in advocacy for the emancipation woman was abducted, raped, killed and of the Jumma indigenous women from being her body left in streets as a public warning tortured by the Bangladesh military. Forced to Manipuri women and mothers protesting marriage and abduction on the part of the against custodial rape and summary killing. military is a ploy to force the integration of The mothers in rage, tore off their clothes in indigenous women into the mainstream $ society. This inhuman practice continues and shouting: ‘rape us before you rape today in Bangladesh. our daughter. Stop killing innocent people. `[^=R^ Iron Lady of Manipur, India has been fasting for justice to women since Sharmila Irom is a 34 years old grassroots then. woman activist in Manipur, India called Q $R _ Just a handful of rice QR = $ peace and justice for the victims of the Indian of Mizoram played a crucial role in fund %R[^[ raising through their project, ‘Handful of

Who will hear our creating a ‘circle of R space for telling School for Gender Justice in September 2009.

24 CCA News March 2010 `R ]$ $ aside a handful of rice in a jar before cooking and then would sell the grains collected to support the Church and its various activities. & R $$ project was huge. Historically, this project was initiated in support of Bible women. In = $ $ as 1913, the Bible women were trained as spiritual healers, given nursing training and practical household skills including crafts, sewing, weaving, and knitting. They traveled to villages teaching women and engaging in healing ministry. In 1958, the 21 Bible women were dismissed from service. The {R_> introduction of Bible women at a very early unregocnized, stage of history of Christianity in Mizoram unpaid or showed the recognition of women in ministry underpaid, and and their acceptance in Mizo society. Dr. Rini undervalued. ` $ $ >^ how painful the dismissal of Bible women Thangavel) $ processes in the Church, there is also the Church of Mizoram. often mistaken notion that gender justice is the agenda for women only and a lack of {R education of both men and women together Day in partnership. The above are just a few untold stories of heroism and commitment of women in building | * /YY communities of peace in every society. anniversary of IWD is an important day for the As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Asian Churches to renew their commitment {R |$ {| $ to take action, initiate polices, engage in important that Asian churches uphold and advocacy and campaign to promote greater {|$ involvement by women in public life as well R as in making decisions in the Church. There protecting their rights and making efforts to is a need to strengthen ecumenical formation put a stop on the violence against women in training in gender justice for women as well our societies. as men. CCA and Asian churches need to engage in social and legal programs that give Breaking their silence women protection from violence, promote | * % social change, and encourage more equitable Secretary, said in a statement that ‘though sharing of domestic responsibilities. gender violence is committed in many countries, in many conservative societies in As Asian Christians offer genuine solidarity Asia it has not even been considered an issue until recently and remains a taboo subject who showed us the way to building just and for public discussion. Asian Churches also peaceful communities of women and men. need to confess that many times it remains silent about violence committed against women, domestic violence within families Moumita Biswas even of members of congregations, and R women being kept from decision making

CCA News March 2010 25 `

Accompanying the migrant workers A theological challenge to churches

igration is intertwined with the history witness; and, c) migration as an opportunity of humankind. Hunger, malnutrition, for advocacy work. The ministry of the Mand death, effects of climate change, European churches to migrants at their violence, war, sexual exploitation and human borders is commendable. It has elements of rights violations force people to leave their caring, sharing, healing and a ministry akin to families, friends and their own countries. that of a Good Samaritan. These churches are &$ driven by the Christian conviction informed by countries, which are often closed to those the words of Jesus who said, “I was hungry, who are forced to migrate. Illegal migrants naked imprisoned…” Mt. 25:31f). While the end up either spending long years in prison caring ministry of the churches in Europe is or in squalid refugee camps. appreciated, it is also important to engage Senior Carers The churches in Europe are responding these churches in a deeper dialogue by (caregivers for to migration under three areas of concern, raising some critical questions. Why are there old people) rally namely: a) migration as opportunity and * migrants? Why do they leave their countries? PYY7> challenge for the unity of the Church; b) Who should take responsibility for their forced ** $ R migration?

26 CCA News March 2010 The Global Ecumenical Network on Migration (GEM) in a meeting in Budapest, Hungary on PQ 28, 2009. GEM advocates on migration, racism and xenophobia, and monitors the effect of migration on changing ecclesial contexts. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there must accompany the churches in the receiving is neither slave nor free, there is neither countries by telling the story of suffering and male nor female; for you are all one in struggles of migrant workers. Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). & The prevailing view in many migrant receiving colonisation and plunder of resources of their countries is that migrants want to come former colonies. They have become rich by to enjoy better economic conditions in the making others poor. receiving countries. So much prejudice and resentment against the stranger at the Repentance is needed in as we minister border has been generated by this view. to migrants and refugees echoing the Often, a migrant is also a person of different O- colour, culture and class. Discrimination and half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I rejection of migrants are also rooted on race, have defrauded any one of anything, I restore colour and class prejudices alongside fear of it fourfold” (Luke 9: 8). _ & QR always a problem. `$ and the powerful realize that justice go beyond Some churches and group in receiving charity and practice justice. Those who cross countries see migrants in their midst as an international borders are not beggars seeking opportunity to evangelize or to proselytize, pity and mercy but are crying out for justice, which is a misunderstanding of mission and reparation, and restoration of their human evangelism. Rather than trying to evangelize dignity. migrants, is it incumbent to recognize their brokenness and the wounded Christ amongst Those who cross borders also have gifts them. Then the response becomes not to to share from their rich cultures. It is evangelise or to convert but to witness to the acknowledged that in 2008 alone Australia Gospel of Jesus Christ by being a community managed to earn almost 4 billion Australian that accompanies victims and advocates their dollars from the migrants who are in their just cause. In that accompaniment Jesus is midst. The migrant is both a recipient of seen as the disciples saw him when he walked hospitality and a giver of skills and cultures. with them on the road to Emmaus (Luke The churches have a unique opportunity to PQ> /< prophecy through their ministry to migrants nations be like the one who accompanied the that offers healing and reconciliation to disciples on the road to Emmaus? It is this the individual migrants, their communities and way of doing mission needed today? nations.

Churches in receiving countries need to Freddy de Alwis listen and to engage with critical voices from churches and civil society groups in sending countries. Churches in sending countries

CCA News March 2010 PZ Newsbriefs

]

More than 400 young people participated in aimed to promote an inclusive paradigm ]$ of relation to ecumenism for relating with ]$ the whole of creation. The youth made a of National Council of Churches in India declaration that they believe that the friendly _ F/Y $ relation has enough strength and potential PY/Y *_ $ which can bind and unite all humanity *_ | together. The call of friendship to is to renew assembly met on the theme ‘Come Let us be and revitalize the tampered and broken [%$R relations with their fellow beings, nature and the creator.” Some youth participants from other South Asian countries also participated to further Ms Moumita Biswas, Joint Executive strengthen the ecumenical youth network in Secretary for Ecumenical Formation, Gender South Asia. Dr Mathews George Chunakara, ] ]% Director of International Affairs Commission $ R of the World Council of Churches (WCC) solidarity and support to this ecumenical delivered the keynote address. Eminent endeavor. CCA heartily congratulates church leaders from India and other South NCCI for its efforts in helping revitalize the Asian countries were also present and ecumenical movement of the youth in India. expressed their solidarity and commitment in promoting the youth ecumenical movement. Moumita Biswas *$ ]! ^$ O]$PY/Y

28 CCA News March 2010 Assembly Volunteers

CCA is blessed to have two volunteers helping in the preparatory work for the 13th %$/QP/PY/Y*=$&$ generously offered their time and talents to help ease the staff burden in preparing for the assembly. CCA is truly grateful to God and to Ling and Tim.

-$ from Chiangmai, Thailand. A member of the 14th District of the Church of Christ in Thailand (CCT), he is pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at the International =%$ |$ $ $ =$ & while volunteering for the 13th CCA % $ R interests include organising events, theology, music and sports.

Timothy comes from Minnesota, USA, where he completed a B.A. Degree in $ ^ - University in January 2008. In addition _$ for the 13th CCA General Assembly, he volunteers at the Ecumenical Coalition on Tourism (ECOT), assists at a local kindergarten, and tutors English in Chiang = issues, Middle East history, Information Technology and music.

SACC celebrates 15th anniversary

To commemorate the 15th anniversary of the the years and assessed its relevance to South Asian Council of Churches (SACC), existing ground realities, and to look towards ZY the future with hope and preparation. from around South Asia gathered on January Eminent theologians actively involved in F7PY/Y=*_ ecumenical mission shared their valuable for a Consultation on “Towards A Relevant insights and experiences. The Consultation = ^ QR Asia”. revitalize and give Mission a new vibrancy rooted in South Asian realities. Consultation participants reviewed Christianity and Christian Mission through Moumita Biswas

CCA News March 2010 29 Book review

We Live by His Gifts

D. T. NIles On May 4, 2008 the Centenary birth bishop, “ but Dr. Niles is among the greatest Anniversary of D.T. Niles was remembered Christians Ceylon has ever produced, and he and to mark that occasion a book titled “We is certainly the greatest contribution which Live By His Gifts” was published by the the Church in Ceylon has made to the World Ecumenical Institute For study and Dialogue R$$> in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is a personal belonged to the world”. account about D.T. Niles written by Rev. Dr. Wesley Ariarajah who had known Niles for R /Z$ General Secretary of the WCC, D.T. Niles the school where he studied, and as the head was a man of the soil. According to him what of the Methodist Church he served. impressed him of D.T. Niles most was the fact that “ … despite the numerous possibilities to As one reads the 169 page well researched hold extended ecumenical positions at the account of D.T. Niles written by Wesley global level, D.T. insisted on being rooted in Ariarajah, one is introduced to a great Sri Lanka and in Jaffna.” ecumenical leader who was born into the tiny island of Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka. According to Wesley, D.T. Niles had several Although born in this small island he managed to put this island on the ecumenical map of |&R$$ the world through his writings, leadership old and he was brought up in the home of his given at world gatherings and his eloquent grandparents until he was old enough to go style of preaching and debating. Wesley to school. According to Wesley, in addition _ to being brought up in a Christian home Teacher and Ecumenist. It is interesting to |& read through these pages and encounter this servant of God who was a gift to the Christian grandmother “who was closer to Hinduism Church in a particular time in history. and Siva piety than his mother, whom he $$P& Wesley begins this book with the tributes paid $$ to him at his death. It is unusual to begin a Wesley continues to write in this book, “My book about a life story of a person with his | &R death. But, Wesley has reasons to do so and | I hope you will discover those reasons by inspiration for his ministerial commitment, his taking time to read it! At the funeral service paternal grandmother, Mary Joshua, who was *$= closer to Hindu piety, was responsible for his late Bishop Harold Soysa of the Anglican spiritual formation.” Church in Ceylon had to say the following O P In this book Wesley also shows the

30 CCA News March 2010 contribution he made to the Asian Churches the Gospel and its implications for the world.” and his pioneering work in the formation of the EACC which later became the CCA. It is said {$ _ &$ * that D.T. had the talent to discover the gifts Jones, Jr., one of the senior mission board in people and to promote them to leadership executives in the USA. According to Tracy, positions. This also led to misunderstanding D.T. “…was a rare combination of rational and because of his style of leadership some brilliance and irrational stubbornness; warm even disliked him. Therefore, Wesley says charm and relentless aggressiveness. When “D.T. too had his share of weaknesses, he stood up in a meeting, whether in England problems, and people who opposed him.” or the USA, he usually took over…” Wesley also shows in this book what made him make such controversial decisions This is the personality of D.T. Niles who is and the reasons behind those decisions. described in this book as the “The Man, The According to Wesley “His strengths, however, &]&&P submerged his weaknesses. He had a I recommend this book to pastors, theological charismatic personality, sharp intellect, students and teachers and ecumenical unique style of eloquence where thoughts, leaders. As Asians we should be proud of words and gestures synchronized perfectly ecumenical leaders of this stature, and thank for the greatest effect, tremendous capacity God for the gift of this man who lived and for friendship, genuine pastoral concern $ and exceptional leadership qualities. It is not uncommon for us to meet persons who ` have two or three of these qualities in good measure. D. T. is one of the rare persons It is a tradition for CCA to have the D.T. Niles in whom all these qualities converged in Lectures every general assembly to honor great measure. Those who heard him speak and remember the legacy of D. T. Niles. One invariably got deeply engrossed in what he of the lecturers for the 13th CCA General had to say, even if they did not agree with $PY/Y|| him. He always spoke with conviction, a Niles, son of D. T. Niles. conviction that rose from his understanding of

RKY$_

= PYYZ international ecumenical people took part in the 50th anniversary ^= & R commitment in building communities of peace for all and that the ecumenical movement in Asia provides a common ground of visible unity amidst diversity among peoples.

Life Together: Memories and Dreams is a collection of life stories and experiences of various people in their ecumenical journey life and work of CCA in the past half century. While not so much historical narratives they do convey powerful messages to younger generations journeying in a new challenging ecumenical world.

The book is now available by order at 3 USD a copy. Email cca@ cca.org.hk

CCA News March 2010 31